For a golf-rich area like the Coachella Valley, Sweet Spot—La Quinta Museum’s newest exhibition—is perfectly named. 
The museum's latest exhibit showcases 50 years of desert golf lore while celebrating master clubmaker, Mario Cesario, an artisan whose handcrafted woods have been wielded by such notable golfers as Tom Watson, Gary Player, Craig Stadler and Patty Sheehan.
Considered one of the finest clubmakers and designers of the 20th century, Cesario left an indelible mark on an ancient sport. First trying his hand as a professional golfer, Cesario soon realized his real passion lay off the greens in designing the sport's equipment. In 1958, he opened Mario’s Golf Shop in Redlands, California, and pioneered cutting-edge clubs for more than half a century.
The special exhibit touches on the history of the sport—begun in the 15th century in Scotland and formerly introduced as a sport in England a century later by James I—son of Mary, Queen of Scots—also known for his King James Version of the Bible, the founding of Jamestown and for imprisoning Sir Walter Raleigh!
Scattered around the exhibit gallery on the second floor are testaments to 50 years of golf here in the desert. Posters and photos attest to American icons' long-time love affair with Palm Springs and golf.
Bob Hope's flamboyantly tattered slacks seem as sartorially inspired as James I's opulent finery.
The museum—under the able direction of Manager Johanna Wickman and La Quinta Historical Society President Linda Williams—aggressively mounts three-month-long exhibits encompassing a wide array of subjects. 
This particular exhibit will be moving on February 6 so add it to your fun-things-to-do list!
Museum information
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